Nifedipine

Author:Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer

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Last updated on: 19.09.2023

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DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.

Nifedipine, a dihydropyridine derivative, belongs to the group of Ca2+channelblockers, pharmaceuticals that selectively block the voltage-dependent influx of calcium through the L-type (L=long lasting) calcium channel but do not affect other calcium channels. Calcium antagonists lower peripheral vascular resistance.

Pharmacodynamics (Effect)This section has been translated automatically.

In the human organism, the L-type calcium channel is found in smooth muscle (e.g., in vascular walls), in the cardiovascular system, and also in neurons. In smooth muscle and cardiac muscle, the "long-lasting calcium channels", which allow slow calcium influx into the cell upon depolarization of the cell membrane, are essential for electromechanical coupling. Dihydropyridine-type calcium antagonists are vasoselective. They lower peripheral resistance. This can lead to reflex tachycardia and pectanginal discomfort. Dihydropyridine-type calcium antagonists may be combined with beta-blockers, preventing reflex tachycardia.

IndicationThis section has been translated automatically.

Nifedipine is mainly used to treat hypertensive emergency, vasospastic angina (Prinzmetal angina, Variant angina), Raynaud's syndrome and angina pectoris (stress angina). As an L-type calcium channel antagonist, the drug has vasodilating and blood pressure-lowering effects.

InteractionsThis section has been translated automatically.

Nifedipine is metabolized by CYP3A4. In cases of co-administration with a more potent CYP3A4 inhibitor, plasma levels of nifedipine may increase.

Glucocorticoids (methylprednisolone): Inhibition of methylprednisolone metabolism (CYP3A4) and inhibition of P-glycoprotein.

Lithium: risk of increased lithium toxicity.

Nitrate derivatives: increased antihypertensive effect and feeling of weakness

Amiodarone and digoxin: increased risk of bradycardia

Beta-receptor blockers, antiarrhythmics or cardiac glycosides: increased effect possible

Note(s)This section has been translated automatically.

The following frequency data shall be used for the evaluation of adverse reactions:

  • Very frequent: more than 1 treated person out of 10
  • Often: 1 to 10 treated from 100
  • Occasionally: 1 to 10 treated from 1.000
  • Rare: 1 to 10 treated from 10.000
  • Very rare: less than 1 treated person per 10.000

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Last updated on: 19.09.2023